Lake Biel, between the cantons of Bern and Neuchâtel, lends itself to an almost entirely flat family bike loop, lined with terraced vineyards on its north shore and the small St. Peter’s Island at its southern tip.
A flat loop around the lake
From Biel/Bienne, the cycle path follows the lake toward Twann and then La Neuveville, crossing the terraced vineyards that overlook the north shore before reaching St. Peter’s Island at the southern end of the lake. Expect around 40 km for the full loop, on an almost entirely flat route that alternates urban shoreline with typical wine villages.
Getting the family ride right
With barely 150 m of cumulative elevation gain over the whole loop, this ride poses no difficulty for young kids pedalling on their own. The path, mostly separated from traffic, crosses a few villages where it’s worth staying alert on short sections shared with vehicles.
When to go
April to October, when good weather lets you make the most of the beaches and lakeside restaurant terraces. Early autumn, harvest season in the Twann and La Neuveville vineyards, brings a special atmosphere.
Good to know
Biel/Bienne, a bilingual city well served by train from Bern and Neuchâtel, offers a wide choice of accommodation, with convenient access to the Taubenloch Gorge to extend the stay beyond the lake loop.
